MoSD, Unicef launch guide to boost child protection
The guide serves as a comprehensive and practical reference aligned with international standards. It is specifically designed to assist frontline workers — including social workers, teachers and healthcare providers — by unifying key concepts, simplifying referral procedures and enhancing coordination among stakeholders. The ultimate goal is to enable rapid and effective interventions that ensure the protection of children and the creation of a safe and nurturing environment for every child in Oman.
Sayyidah Maani bint Abdullah al Busaidy, Director-General of Family Development at the Ministry of Social Development, stated that the guide represents a strategic milestone in integrating national efforts to combat child abuse, neglect and exploitation. It empowers professionals to act with greater efficiency and aligns with both the Child Law and Oman Vision 2040, reinforcing the country's commitment to child welfare.
Unicef Representative in Oman, Sumayra Chowdhury, underscored the collaborative spirit behind the guide, noting that it symbolises not only guidance but a shared promise to take humane and decisive action whenever a child faces danger. She emphasised that this initiative reflects the strong, ongoing partnership between Unicef and the Government of Oman in building inclusive and responsive child protection systems.
Haitham bin Salem al Khaduri, Director of the Family Protection Department, described the guide as a national framework that consolidates Oman's obligations under both local and international child protection laws. It supports the development of a unified case management system, enhances specialist capacity and contributes to community awareness, policy reform and violence prevention.
As part of its implementation strategy, the Ministry of Social Development and Unicef will roll out a series of workshops and training sessions across Oman's governorates. These efforts aim to ensure the guide's effective and consistent use while reinforcing professional practices grounded in children's rights.
The Child Protection Guide is a testament to Oman's dedication to nurturing its youngest citizens, safeguarding their rights, and laying the foundation for a brighter and more secure future.
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She further added that in collaboration with partners, local institutions, and the National Family Affairs Committee, UNICEF launched a national awareness campaign titled 'Our Children, a Trust', which received widespread engagement. The campaign continuously highlights the importance of early childhood development and its impact on children's futures. She said that UNICEF has also designed and implemented behaviour-change communication campaigns focusing on family and community roles in child protection, addressing emerging issues like cyberbullying, mental health, and violence. These initiatives, she pointed out, engage children and adolescents in expressing their needs and becoming part of the solution. She added that in partnership with government entities, UNICEF launched a national strategic communication strategy for societal behaviour change, based on scientific evidence addressing practices, habits, and knowledge levels related to early childhood development. It also implements targeted awareness campaigns to improve social indicators, such as promoting breastfeeding and proper nutrition, fostering supportive environments for holistic child development.
